Widmer Brothers Brewing Brings Back Iconic KGB Russian Imperial Stout for 2025 Finale of “40 Years of Cheers”

Widmer Brothers‘ KGB Russian Imperial Stout is a beloved, limited-release beer known for its rich, dark character, appearing periodically as a special draft or bottle release, most recently around late 2025 as part of their 40th anniversary, following earlier releases in 2011 and 2013, and often returning for fans craving this cult-classic, high-ABV brew. 

Key Details:
Style: Russian Imperial Stout.
ABV: Around 9.3%.
Characteristics: Dark, rich, complex, with notes of roasted barley, chocolate, and coffee.

History: First brewed in 1998, gained cult status, released in bottles as part of the W-Series (W’11) in 2011, and reappeared as rare draft-only in later years, including a 2025 return for their 40th anniversary. 

Release Patterns:
2011 (W’11): Released as a seasonal in the “W Series,” available in bottles and draft.
2013: Featured as a limited release in the W Series.
2015: Part of the “30 Beers for 30 Years” series, available in 22oz bottles and draft.
2025: Reintroduced for a limited time, draft-only in Portland, as part of their 40th-anniversary celebration, satisfying longtime fans. 


PORTLAND, Ore. – April 28, 2025 – Widmer Brothers Brewing, the visionary behind the iconic American Hefeweizen, today announced the return of KGB Russian Imperial Stout as the final release in its year‑long “40 Years of Cheers” celebration. This limited‑time release pays homage to four decades of innovation with four legendary beers – one from each era of the brewery’s storied history.

“KGB Russian Imperial Stout is more than a beer—it’s a living legend that captures the bold spirit of our early experimental years,” said Alex McNamara, Senior Brand Manager at Widmer Brothers. “This release not only closes out our anniversary series but also offers a rare chance for fans to savor a piece of Portland beer heritage”.

First brewed by veteran brewer Ben Dobler in 1998 at the Widmer Brothers Pub, KGB quickly earned cult status among followers. Bottled under the W-Series in 2011, it made seasonal appearances through 2013 before fading into stardom—until now.

At 9.3% ABV and 65 IBUs, the stout pours deep, opaque black with a thick brown head. The complex flavor profile includes layers of roasty malt, espresso, dark chocolate, and spicy hop accents. A rich grain bill—comprising Pale, Roast, C-60L, Chocolate, and Midnight Wheat malts—is balanced by a hop blend featuring Alchemy, Zeus, Cascade, and Willamette varieties.

“KGB has always represented our fearless approach to brewing—bold, unapologetic, and deeply rooted in experimentation,” added Brian Hughes, Brand Director at Tilray Beverages West Coast Brands. “Bringing it back for 2025 is our way of tipping our hat to the legends who built our brewery”.

KGB Russian Imperial Stout will be available exclusively on draft at select Portland-area pubs, bars, and restaurants. Once the kegs are tapped, this stout returns to its legendary status—extinct and elusive—until it resurfaces for the brewery’s next milestone.

Widmer’s “40 Years of Cheers” campaign launched with the re-release of Altbier, the brewery’s first 1984 beer, and will traverse through fan favorites from each decade, culminating with KGB. This celebration reiterates Widmer’s dedication to its roots while opening the doors for exciting new chapters ahead.

About Widmer Brothers Brewing

Founded in 1984 by brothers Kurt and Rob Widmer, the brewery revolutionized American beer with the Original American Hefeweizen. Today, Widmer Brothers, a Tilray Brands company (NASDAQ: TLRY), continues to pioneer and push boundaries—commemorating 40 years of bringing people together over great beer.



PORTLAND, Oregon., April 28, 2025 – Widmer Brothers Brewing, the creator of the Original American Hefeweizen and a Tilray Brands, Inc., (NASDAQ: TLRY and TSX: TLRY) craft beer brand, commemorates its 40^th anniversary with the launch of the “40 Years of Cheers” campaign celebrating Widmer’s iconic beers through the years. This multi-stage celebration marks the brewery’s 40th anniversary and will feature the re-release of four iconic Widmer Brothers beers.

The “40 Years of Cheers” campaign will kick off with the re-release of Altbier, the first beer brewed and sold by Widmer Brothers in 1984. Altbier is a traditional German-style ale known for its amber hue, assertive bitterness, and clean, roasted finish. This beer represents the beginning of the Widmer Brother’s brewing journey, brewed with a variety of reclaimed equipment in what is now Portland’s Pearl District.

“A lot can change in 40 years, but great beer still brings people together. 40 Years of Cheers not only pays homage to four decades of craft beer innovation but also sets the foundation for the future of the brand. With 40 years of experience and a Widmer Hefe in hand, we are excited to bring both new and classic Widmer beers to Portlanders and write the next chapter of Widmer Brothers,” says Brian Hughes, Brand Director, at Tilray Beverages West Coast Brands.

Altbier will be the first of four beers to be re-released throughout 2025, with each beer representing a different decade of Widmer Brothers’ history. Details on the next re-release, a fan-favorite summer seasonal from the 2000s, will be announced in the coming weeks.

“Beers Through the Years” will be available in limited, small-batch quantities at a handful of local Portland bars and restaurants:

Nob Hill Bar & Grill
Dublin Pub
Spirit of ‘77 
Jolly Roger West 
Tom’s Bar 
John’s Market – Multnomah & Powell 

When the last keg blows, that will be it! For more information about Widmer Brothers, the “40 Years of Cheers” campaign, and upcoming beer releases, visit  www.widmerbrothers.com and follow @widmerbrothers on social media.

About Widmer Brothers

In 1984, Kurt and Rob Widmer quit their jobs to follow their passion for making great beer to share with friends and family. From the very first pitcher, the Widmer Brothers aimed to create beer that’s easy to enjoy and perfect for any occasion. While much has changed over the years, the core belief that great beer brings people together remains the same. Widmer Brothers is proud to celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2024-25 and looks forward to many more decades of brewing excellence.

About Tilray Brands

Tilray Brands, Inc. (“Tilray”) (Nasdaq: TLRY; TSX: TLRY), is a global lifestyle and consumer packaged goods company at the forefront of beverage, cannabis and wellness industries with operations in Canada, the United States, Europe, Australia, and Latin America that is leading as a transformative force at the nexus of cannabis, beverage, wellness, and entertainment, elevating lives through moments of connection. Tilray’s mission is to be a leading premium lifestyle company with a house of brands and innovative products that inspire joy, wellness and create memorable experiences. Tilray’s unprecedented platform supports over 40 brands in over 20 countries, including comprehensive cannabis offerings, hemp-based foods, and craft beverages.
For more information on Tilray Brands, visit www.Tilray.com and follow @Tilray.

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